There are many guides which go into how to “how to choose a diamond” or “how to choose an engagement ring” which then explain the 4C’s (Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat).

But there are other considerations which are actually just as important when purchasing that perfect piece of jewellery! We caught up with exhibitors AKS Diamonds who will be exhibiting at our London ExCel Wedding show in January to go over the finer details

Metal

Precious metals like gold and platinum are not only beautiful but also last long for years. Look for variants of gold like white gold (besides yellow), which complement your skin tone. 24 karat is gold in its purest form with 22 karat being the next purest. These however are soft and create a greater chance for jewellery to scratch or bend. 18 karat is a more durable form of gold with a relatively high purity. Platinum is more durable than gold and is also considered to be very lustrous amongst the precious metal family.

Setting

In choosing a diamond ring there are a number of settings to also choose from. The setting is more dictated by the shape of the diamond, however for a round brilliant you could have a 4 claw, a 6 claw or a even a double claw setting. For a princess cut you could have a single stone secured at the corners or four diamonds in an invisible setting.

Shoulder stones

Shoulder stones accentuate the beauty of a diamond wedding ring. 12 to 16 smaller diamonds on the shoulders, mounted as a channel or prong setting can heighten the visual appeal.

Shopping

Always avoid shopping for diamond jewellery over the internet, no matter how economical. Diamond jewellery should be bought first hand, where you examine the jewellery, feel it, look at it and try it on.

Pop by and visit AKS Diamonds on stand C30 at the London Excel wedding show and you find out more about selecting the perfect ring!

With Love #UKWS